On 13 March 2005, members from all over the country converged upon Oxstalls Indoor Tennis Centre, Gloucester to attend the 31 st Annual General Meeting of BASS.
In true BASS tradition, the formal side of the meeting was kept to a minimum, thus allowing members more time to meet up with old friends, visit the trade stands, listen to some very interesting lectures and do the next best thing to bass fishing – talk about it!
The audience was given a detailed presentation of the Bass Management Plan (BMP) by Malcolm Gilbert, Steve Pitts and Geoff Hancock, members of the BASS Restoration Project team. This was followed by a short discussion session giving those present the chance to comment on, and formally approve, the BMP.
Justin Anwyl a professional guide operating on the south coast and overseas trips gave a very enjoyable and informative lecture on his approach to saltwater fly fishing in the UK. Some of his methods are quite revolutionary and gave much food for thought to those present.
Allan Hughes, a stalwart of the Society and experienced bass boat angler, enthralled and amused the audience with his exploits on fishing from his boat. Allan has many double figure bass to his name (all returned) so he certainly knows what he is talking about.
Peter Macconnell, Editor and Committee member, chaired an informal discussion between members, on how to progress the Society forward. A lively session ensued and many useful ideas were passed on to the Committee for further consideration.
As usual, no BASS AGM would be complete without Mike Ladle, BASS veteran, film maker and well known angling writer. Mike did his usual, almost impromptu, but nevertheless brilliant, talk about his previous season’s fishing. He covered everything from winter piking to Caribbean bonefish and tarpon with typical aplomb. Members present were fascinated and entertained as always.
Another successful and enjoyable AGM. See you all in 2006.
[Photo – John Morgan (left) being presented by John Leballeur, Chairman with ‘Fellow of the Society’ award – photo courtesy Simon Everett]